If you’ve ever daydreamed about dramatic coastlines, cozy pubs, ancient castles, and a shade of green that puts emeralds to shame, you might be thinking about Ireland.
This magical little island has a way of capturing hearts, whether you’re into history, food, nature, or a really good pint. If you’re still on the fence about booking that flight, here are ten reasons we think you’ll fall in love with the Emerald Isle – and never want to leave.
The Scenery Is Straight-Up Cinematic
Ireland’s landscapes will make you pause mid-sentence to stare out the window. You’ll hear a lot about the Cliffs of Moher, one of the most iconic natural sights in the country. They rise over 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean and have views that are so dramatic, they’ve starred in Harry Potter and The Princess Bride.
And that’s just the beginning. You can also drive through Connemara in County Galway. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard with its rolling hills, mirror lakes, and roaming sheep.
The Ring of Kerry is another must-see route, wrapping around ancient mountains and glacial valleys that appear to be untouched by time. Of course, this only scratches the surface. Be sure to enjoy our list of 25 must-visit destinations in Ireland as you sip on a small dram of whiskey by the fire.
Castles, Castles Everywhere
Ireland is absolutely spoiled when it comes to castles. There are over 30,000 castle sites scattered across the country, from crumbling ruins to grand estates still standing tall and proud. You can visit ancient ruins to be transported through time, à la Outlander, or stay a night in some spectacularly refurbished sites like Ashford Castle to live like a king or queen for the night.
One of the most famous is Blarney Castle in County Cork, where you can kiss the legendary Blarney Stone to gain the “gift of the gab.” Just be prepared for the crowds if you come during peak season.
Then there’s Bunratty Castle in County Clare, a fully restored 15th-century fortress where you can attend a medieval banquet (turkey legs included). It’s a great choice, in any way, because County Clare is one of the most beautiful counties on the West Coast. Dunguaire Castle is also happy to give you a show.
Don’t miss Kilkenny Castle, either. It’s been standing since 1195 and offers guided tours that, again, feel like time travel. It’s a great choice, in any way, because County Clare is one of the most beautiful counties on the West Coast.
Up in Donegal, you can treat yourself to a luxurious stay in Lough Eske Castle before driving into the town center to savor the sight of Donegal Castle. These two are chart-toppers on our list of the most unique places to visit in Ireland.
Ireland’s castles make more than one appearance in our 10-day itinerary through this magical land.
The History Is Deep and Fascinating
From Neolithic tombs older than the pyramids to Viking-founded cities like Dublin, Ireland’s history is layered and endlessly fascinating. Head to Newgrange, a 5,200-year-old passage tomb in County Meath that’s perfectly aligned with the rising sun on the winter solstice – talk about ancient engineering.
In Dublin, explore Kilmainham Gaol, where many leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising were imprisoned. It’s chilling and powerful. Also, you can walk the centuries-old walls of Derry (technically Northern Ireland) – one of the finest examples of a walled city in Europe.
The People Are Genuinely Warm
There’s a reason “Céad Míle Fáilte” (“a hundred thousand welcomes”) is an Irish saying. It’s how you’ll feel the minute you arrive. Irish people are famously friendly and love a good chat, whether it’s with a neighbor or a tourist just passing through.
You’ll find that, whether you’re sipping tea in a local café, sharing a table in a pub, or asking for directions on a back road, someone will be more than happy to help – and probably throw in a story or two for good measure.
The Pub Culture Is Unlike Anywhere Else
It’s true; the Guinness tastes better in Ireland (don’t ask us why, it just does). But, beyond the beer, Irish pubs are cultural institutions. They’re where locals gather, music flows freely, and the atmosphere is always warm and welcoming.
If you’re looking for the Dublin scene, head to The Brazen Head, the oldest pub in the country (dating back to 1198), to find yourself surrounded by history. But, again, in Dublin, be prepared for the crowds.
If you’re like us, you’ll be more drawn to the West Coast, where many of Ireland’s coastal treasures lie. Stop into a cozy spot in Doolin or Galway and catch some traditional Irish music (trad): fiddles, flutes, bodhráns, and all. The craic is always mighty. Without question, they top our list of the best places to visit in Ireland.
Road Trips Here Are Pure Magic
Ireland is made for road trips. The Wild Atlantic Way, which stretches over 1,500 miles along the West Coast, is one of the most breathtaking coastal routes in the world. You’ll pass by ancient ruins, surf towns, fairy-tale castles, and plenty of sheep on the road (don’t worry; they keep themselves to themselves).
You can also venture along the Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland and stop at Dunluce Castle and Giant’s Causeway, a natural wonder of 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns formed by volcanic activity – or, if you ask the locals, a giant named Finn McCool.
There are also more localized drives like the Sky Road in Connemara and Slea Head in Kerry. Never again will you see anything else so transformative and showstopping. You’re teetering at the edge of the earth, but have no room for fear because the views are so spectacular.
We can’t get enough of driving on the “wrong” side of the road when we’re here. To get you going, here are ten more must-see stops on a road trip around Ireland.
The Food Scene Is Seriously Underrated
Gone are the days of thinking Irish cuisine is just potatoes. Today’s Ireland is a foodie’s dream, with cozy gastropubs, farm-to-table eateries, and fresh seafood on every coast. Try a steaming bowl of seafood chowder in Kinsale or feast on Irish stew made with tender beef and potatoes in Doolin.
And, of course, there’s the drink. Sample a dram of single malt Irish whiskey at Bushmills Distillery (founded in 1608!) or book a tasting at Jameson Distillery in Dublin. Learning to pour a perfect pint of Guinness at the Guinness Storehouse is also a rite of passage. And, if whiskey’s your thing, here’s our guide to the best distilleries in Ireland.
You’ll Be Surrounded by Myth and Legend
Ireland is a place where ancient myths still whisper through the hills. This is the land of fairy forts, Celtic gods, and leprechaun legends. Visit the Hill of Tara, the ancient seat of Irish kings and a sacred site tied to both history and folklore.
You can also explore Glendalough, a 6th-century monastic settlement tucked into the Wicklow Mountains. The intertwining of spiritual history and natural beauty makes sites like these feel truly enchanted. You can be sure Glendalough is on our list of essential stops on your Irish adventure.
It’s a Festival-Lover’s Paradise
If you love a good celebration, Ireland has you covered. Of course, there’s St. Patrick’s Day, which is celebrated with parades, music, and green all over the country. Here are eight spots to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland next year. But, there are loads of other festivals worth planning your trip around.
Check out the Galway International Arts Festival in July for a mix of street performance, theatre, and live music. There’s also the West Cork Literary festival the same time of year, or Dingle Lit in the fall. You should also head down to Lisdoonvarna for the Matchmaking Festival in the fall. It dates back over 150 years and still brings hopeful romantics to their little village every year.
Here are ten more things that will make a visit to Galway – a must-visit on your itinerary – feel like magic.
It’s Easy, Safe, and Full of Surprises
Ireland is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world. It’s easy to get around (especially by car), English is the main language, and the hospitality makes solo travel a breeze. Plus, there are always little surprises waiting for you like a hidden beach, a local storyteller, or the sound of a music session floating through the air.
Ready to Fall Deeply In Love?
Whether you’re planning a short weekend escape or a two-week adventure, Ireland is the kind of place that leaves a mark – and a longing to come back time and time again. We promise you: you’ll fall in love. Just be prepared.
This may not surprise you, either: we fell madly, deeply in love with Ireland many moons ago. As a result, we have an extensive library of destination guides to help you plan your trip to perfection. Come take a look and let the magic begin. If all goes well, we’ll raise a glass to you in Galway Bay one fine day.